Common Features of Patients With Autoimmune Atrophic Gastritis

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Autoimmune atrophic gastritis (AIG) is characterized by immune-mediated chronic inflammation of the gastric body and fundus, leading to hypo-achlorhydria and vitamin B12 deficiency. We analyzed the clinical features of AIG and sought to identify factors that might be used in diagnosis. METHODS: We collected and analyzed clinical data from 99 consecutive patients (age, 59 +/- 17 y) who were diagnosed with AIG, based on histologic factors and the presence of autoantibodies against gastric parietal cells. RESULTS: Clinical factors that led to a diagnosis of AIG included hematologic findings related to vitamin B12 deficiency (n = 37), incidental histologic evidence in gastric biopsy specimens (n = 34), immune disorders (n = 18; 9 were celiac disease), neurologic symptoms (n = 6), and a family history of AIG (n = 4). CONCLUSIONS: Based on an analysis of 99 consecutive patients with AIG, this disorder is not solely a condition of the elderly. Other features to look for in making a diagnosis of AIG include vitamin B12 deficiency, histologic factors, and immune disorders.